The upcoming 2024-25 women's college basketball season is poised to showcase a remarkable array of talent, as a new generation of stars prepares to take the court and captivate audiences nationwide. From record-breaking scorers to defensive anchors, this year's lineup of returning players promises a season filled with game-changing plays and powerhouse performances that will leave fans on the edge of their seats.

Elevating the Game: A Glimpse into the Future of Women's Basketball

JuJu Watkins: The Freshman Phenom Redefining Dominance

JuJu Watkins burst onto the scene last season, redefining the meaning of freshman dominance. As USC's leading scorer, Watkins propelled the Trojans to their first Elite Eight appearance in three decades, showcasing her smooth three-level scoring and unmatched versatility. Her standout performance included a 51-point masterpiece against Stanford, setting an NCAA freshman scoring record with 920 points. Watkins' hometown pride and unstoppable game have made her a national star, and she returns to USC with even bigger goals in sight, poised to lead her team to new heights.

Paige Bueckers: UConn's Clutch Leader Aiming for One Final Championship

In her final season, Paige Bueckers has a singular focus: leading UConn back to the top. The former Naismith Player of the Year is renowned for her electrifying playmaking and scoring touch, coupled with the basketball IQ that has made her a force for the Huskies since day one. After overcoming injury setbacks, Bueckers is ready for her last ride, determined to deliver UConn another championship with her signature clutch performances and court leadership.

Hannah Hidalgo: Notre Dame's Defensive Dynamo Fueling the Fighting Irish

As a freshman, Hannah Hidalgo was a force to be reckoned with on both ends of the floor, averaging an impressive 23.3 points, 6.4 rebounds, 5.5 assists, and 4.6 steals per game. The ACC's Defensive Player and Rookie of the Year, Hidalgo led the league in scoring and topped the nation with 147 steals. Her dynamic play sparked Notre Dame's ACC title run, and her high-energy style, especially on defense, continues to elevate the Fighting Irish's backcourt game as she enters her second season.

Audi Crooks: Iowa State's Dominant Freshman Sensation

Audi Crooks burst onto the college basketball scene in her freshman year at Iowa State, averaging an impressive 19.2 points and 7.8 rebounds. She made headlines with a historic 40-point, 18-of-20 shooting performance against Maryland in the NCAA Tournament, setting a new standard for freshmen. Crooks' physical presence and skill in the paint make her a rising star who is poised to take the Big 12 by storm once again this season.

MiLaysia Fulwiley: South Carolina's Electrifying Playmaker

MiLaysia Fulwiley brings a unique blend of electrifying energy and a flair for big moments to South Carolina's court. As the first freshman since Candace Parker to win SEC Tournament MVP, Fulwiley made her mark with no-look passes, daring drives, and defensive stops. Her knack for show-stopping plays, combined with a talent for clutch performances, has already positioned her as a Gamecocks fan favorite.

Rori Harmon: Texas' Defensive Anchor Primed for a Comeback

After being granted two more years of eligibility, Texas point guard Rori Harmon is poised to make a significant impact following her ACL recovery. A two-time All-American honorable mention and former Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year, Harmon is ready to elevate the Longhorns as they transition into SEC play. With a stronger backcourt and her leadership, Texas aims to build on last year's Elite Eight run and reach new heights.

Madison Booker: Texas' Versatile Powerhouse Aiming for the Top

Texas forward Madison Booker is primed to shine after a stellar freshman year, where she set UT records and claimed Big 12 Player and Freshman of the Year honors. Known for her versatility and unguardable skillset, Booker was instrumental in Texas' 33-win season, scoring in double digits 32 times. With a year of experience and Rori Harmon back in the lineup, Booker is determined to lead Texas deeper than last year's Elite Eight finish.

Olivia Miles: Notre Dame's Dazzling Playmaker Returning to the Court

After a year and a half off the court, Olivia Miles is set to make her mark again as one of the game's elite guards. Known for her dazzling passes and versatility, Miles was a standout with a near triple-double average in her freshman NCAA Tournament. Fully recovered and ready to lead alongside teammate Hannah Hidalgo, Miles aims to remind everyone why she is key to Notre Dame's championship hopes.

Aneesah Morrow: LSU's Dominant Force Poised for an Even Bigger Impact

Coming off a stellar debut season with LSU, Aneesah Morrow is primed for an even bigger role. Known for her double-double prowess, Morrow averaged 16.4 points and 10 rebounds last season, ranking among the best in the nation with 21 double-doubles. With her defensive tenacity and versatility on offense, Morrow's leadership will be crucial for LSU as they aim for another title run. Expect "NeesThaBeast" to continue dominating the boards and solidifying her status as an SEC star.

Flau'jae Johnson: LSU's Two-Way Powerhouse Elevating the Tigers

Flau'jae Johnson has developed into a crucial asset for LSU, showcasing her two-way prowess. In her sophomore season, she averaged 14.9 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 2.1 steals per game. Known for her clutch performances, Johnson elevated her game in the NCAA Tournament, including a 24-point, 12-rebound showcase against UCLA. With her elite scoring and defensive versatility, Johnson's ability to step up in big moments will be key to LSU's championship ambitions this season.

Lauren Betts: UCLA's Dominant Presence in the Paint

Lauren Betts established herself as one of the nation's top bigs last season, leading UCLA with 14.9 points, 9.3 rebounds, and 2.0 blocks per game while shooting an efficient 67% from the field. Her presence on both ends of the court made her invaluable, especially during UCLA's postseason run. Known for her defensive prowess and 13 double-doubles, Betts' dominance in the paint and versatility on defense make her a player to watch as the Bruins aim for a deep tournament push.

Kiki Rice: UCLA's Backcourt Leader Poised for a Breakout Season

Entering her junior season, Kiki Rice has become the heart of UCLA's backcourt. Averaging 13.2 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 4.5 assists last year, she led the team in defensive boards and showcased her all-around skill with a triple-double against CSUN. Known for her clutch performances, like her 24-point, 11-rebound game to topple then-No. 6 UConn, Rice's growth on both ends of the floor positions UCLA for another deep tournament run.

Ayoka Lee: Kansas State's Dominant Center Cementing Her Legacy

Kansas State's star center, Ayoka Lee, returns for a final season after a standout 2023-24 campaign, averaging 19.7 points, 8.6 rebounds, and 2.8 blocks. Known for her NCAA single-game scoring record of 61 points, Lee has cemented her name in K-State history, holding school records in scoring, rebounds, and blocks. As she embarks on her final collegiate season, Lee's presence in the paint will be a force to be reckoned with.

Te-Hina Paopao: South Carolina's Sharpshooter Aiming to Defend the Title

After transferring from Oregon, Te-Hina Paopao made an immediate impact on South Carolina's historic championship run, helping the Gamecocks achieve a perfect 38-0 season. Known for her lights-out shooting, Paopao led the nation in 3-point percentage (46.8%) and was a steady force in key moments, especially against top-ranked opponents. As she returns to South Carolina for a final season, Paopao is set to play a crucial role in the Gamecocks' quest to defend their national title.

Raven Johnson: South Carolina's "Comeback Kid" Fueling the Gamecocks

Raven Johnson, known as "The Comeback Kid," turned challenges into triumphs, capping off her "Revenge Tour" with a standout 2024 season. After being waved off by Caitlin Clark in 2023, Johnson responded by leading South Carolina to a perfect season and national title, delivering clutch moments like her game-sealing 3-pointer against Indiana. Averaging 8.1 points, 5.2 rebounds, 4.8 assists, and 2 steals per game, Johnson earned All-SEC and NCAA Regional All-Tournament honors while anchoring the defense against Clark in the title game.

Saniya Rivers: NC State's Two-Way Dynamo Elevating the Wolfpack

Saniya Rivers shined in her junior season, earning First Team All-ACC, All-Defensive Team, and AP All-America Honorable Mention honors. Known for her two-way play, Rivers averaged 12.5 points, 6.1 rebounds, 3.7 assists, and 2.1 steals per game, leading NC State to a Final Four run. Her defensive impact was on full display with a career-high 33 points, 10 rebounds, five assists, three blocks, and three steals against UConn—the first 30/10/5 game in NC State's recent history.